Magazine - Mary's Success Story
A learning success story from Halton People into Jobs
"I had been out of work for a while and ended up getting to a bit of a rut. When I was told, by Halton People into Jobs at a local jobs fair, about the Inspiring Women course that they ran with Team Enterprise I was interested and keen, but the thought of attending a course where other people would be just made my stomach churn.
After a couple of attempts of putting my coat and getting ready to start the course I finally plucked up the courage to attend with the support of Kate at HPIJ.
It was such a lovely, relaxed environment and it was great because it was women only. It gave you that bit more confidence to speak out and get involved in things that could help me towards getting back into work. I completed the 6 day Inspiring Women course and then went on to complete the 2 week Halton Employment Charter ran by Halton People into Jobs where myself, family and friends started to notice my confidence and self-esteem grow.
Going on the Halton Employment Charter helped me build on the confidence and motivation from the Inspiring Women, and provided me with lots of information about support available to me and the types of jobs I could apply for.
Through the continuing one-to-one support from Halton People into Jobs and the Employment Team, they were able to identify a two-week voluntary Routeway Programme opportunity that helped me gain more confidence and practical skills in a different work environment. I then progressed on to a 13 week paid placement and have recently started 3 months paid employment at HPIJ office where I am able to share my own experience with local people that are looking for work and show that anything is possible. I work on reception and provide a range of admin support to the busy team.
I really enjoy speaking to local people about the support the team can offer, how it can benefit them and the job opportunities available. I have learned lots about the council and its systems and procedures as well as brushing up on my IT skills! Through this job I have been able to work towards an NQV level 2 in Business Admin."
Without starting the Inspiring Women course and getting the support I did from Halton People into Jobs and the Employment Team I would not be where I am today, doing the job I love. I am a much happier and confident person now."Mary Spence, 2008
Next Steps
Visit The Grapevine to find out more about the Halton People Into Job programme or contact the HPIJ team on 01928 759090.
Do you have a learning success story?
Mary's words are a great source of inspiration. If you have a learning success story then Contact Us and tell us about it.